,,,config.header.left: ""
config.header.center: ""
config.header.right: ""
config.footer.left: ""
config.footer.center: ""
config.footer.right: ""
config.body.transition.name: 'fadeInOut'
--
<h1 class="title">Disclaimer!</h1>
<hr>
This activity is meant as an exercise for reflection only, and <u>not</u> as a definitive guide for responding to racism.
[after 1000ms]
Every scenario and person is different, and you will need to consider each decision carefully, taking in the full scope of the specific circumstances of any racist incident you may witness or be targeted by.
[after 2000ms]
Be sure to see the “<em>other general considerations</em>” and reference section at the end of this activity to help guide and further your understanding for capacity and action.
<nav>
[after 3000ms]
[[Continue->Intro]]
</nav>chap1 (passage.visits === 1): 0
chap2 (passage.visits === 1): 0
chap3 (passage.visits === 1): 0
chap4 (passage.visits === 1): 0
config.header.left: "{passage.name}"
config.header.center: ""
config.header.right: ""
config.footer.left: "<a href='https://mcos.ca/' target='_blank'>© MCoS {now.year}</a>"
config.footer.center: ""
config.footer.right: "[[Back to Menu->Menu]]"
--
<div class="center">
<h1 class="title">Rejecting Racism</h1>
<h3>An interactive learning adventure</h3>
<hr>
When you finish each level, you will be given a chance to see the ripple effects of each of your decisions before the following level is unlocked.
{embed passage: 'Intro Disclaimer'}
<b>Chapter Select:</b>
[if chap4 == 1]
<em>Congratulations! You have completed all levels!</em>
[cont]
<nav class="chapters">
[[Level 1: Structural Racism->1 Intro]]
[if chap1 == 1]
<span class="check"></span>
[[Level 2: Institutional Racism->2 Intro]]
[else]
[[Level 2: Institutional Racism->2 Intro]]
[cont]
[if chap2 == 1]
<span class="check"></span>
[[Level 3: Interpersonal Racism->3 Intro]]
[else]
[[Level 3: Interpersonal Racism->3 Intro]]
[cont]
[if chap3 == 1]
<span class="check"></span>
[[Level 4: Internalized Racism->4 Intro]]
[else]
[[Level 4: Internalized Racism->4 Intro]]
[cont]
[if chap4 == 1]
<span class="check"></span>
[cont]
</nav>
<nav>
[[Tips for Confronting Racism->Considerations]]
[[Special Thanks]]
{Restart Link, label: "Reset Game Progress"}
</nav>
<hr>
<a class="logo-link" href='https://mcos.ca/' target='_blank'>
<img src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/mcos_official_logo_dark.png">
Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan</a>
<style>
header,footer {
display: none !important;
}
</style>
</div><b>Martin Luther King Jr.</b> said:
<blockquote>
“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.”</blockquote>
[after 2000ms]
Understanding the interconnectedness of all members of society is an important element to an anti-racist disposition. Racism, at all its levels, hurts all of us, and harms those who are dehumanized by it most. A threat to one person is a threat to all people. A threat to one racial group is a threat to all racial groups. Ensuring the safety of each member of our communities is crucial to ensuring the safety of our communities overall.
[after 3000ms]
Safety starts with speaking directly and respectfully to our families, friends, coworkers, and community members about the concerns we have about racial inequity. After viewing each video, use this activity as a reflection tool. How might you respond to racism in each scenario, whether you are the target, an involved party, or a witness to the event?
[after 4000ms]
How might we work to address and overcome structural racism, systemic/institutional racism, interpersonal racism, and internalized racism?
<nav>
[after 5000ms]
[[PLAY->Menu]]
</nav>sekwan (passage.visits === 1): 0
ethan (passage.visits === 1): 0
grandmother (passage.visits === 1): 0
config.header.left: "Level 1: Structural Racism"
config.header.center: ""
config.header.right: "Intro"
--
<h1 class="chaptitle">Structural Racism</h1>
<div class="video">
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/db40XXAIv1k?si=-1H3fA4LlvYaPybD" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>
In this scenario, you will explore how structural racism impacts the lives of Sekwan, Ethan, and Grandmother, each dealing differently with the ongoing effects of colonialism and land rights. Consider their stories carefully as you choose how each character responds to these challenges.
{embed passage: 'Intro Disclaimer'}
<b>Choose a character to continue:</b>
<nav class="characters">
[if sekwan == 0]
[[Sekwan]]
[else]
<a class="checked" href="#">Sekwan</a>
[cont]
[if ethan == 0]
[[Ethan]]
[else]
<a class="checked" href="#">Ethan</a>
[cont]
[if grandmother == 0]
[[Grandmother]]
[else]
<a class="checked" href="#">Grandmother</a>
[cont]
[if sekwan > 0 && ethan > 0 && grandmother > 0]
[[Finish Chapter!->1 Outro]]
[cont]
</nav>abe (passage.visits === 1): 0
principal (passage.visits === 1): 0
config.header.left: "Level 2: Systemic Racism"
config.header.center: ""
config.header.right: "Intro"
--
<h1 class="chaptitle">Institutional & Systemic Racism</h1>
<div class="video">
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ynaEiY_S--w?si=BAWT0jO-vfgsxbFV" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>
In this scenario, you follow the experiences of Abegunde Abiodun, a student facing systemic racism at school, and the principal responsible for applying discipline policies. Consider carefully how institutional racism affects their interactions and decisions.
{embed passage: 'Intro Disclaimer'}
<b>Choose a character to continue:</b>
<nav class="characters">
[if abe == 0]
[[Abegunde Abiodun->Abegunde]]
[else]
<a class="checked" href="#">Abegunde Abiodun</a>
[cont]
[if principal == 0]
[[School Principal->Principal]]
[else]
<a class="checked" href="#">Ethan</a>
[cont]
[if abe > 0 && principal > 0]
[[Finish Chapter!->2 Outro]]
[cont]
</nav>cousin (passage.visits === 1): 0
bystander (passage.visits === 1): 0
joe (passage.visits === 1): 0
config.header.left: "Level 3: Interpersonal Racism"
config.header.center: ""
config.header.right: "Intro"
--
<h1 class="chaptitle">Interpersonal Racism</h1>
<div class="video">
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HTrTzJW0L-A?si=hY4PHPfcRnqaKbWd" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>
This scenario explores interpersonal racism through the experiences of Joe Chen, his cousin, and a bystander witnessing a racist incident. Reflect on each character's role, their feelings, and potential responses to navigate this challenging situation effectively and compassionately.
{embed passage: 'Intro Disclaimer'}
<b>Choose a character to continue:</b>
<nav class="characters">
[if cousin == 0]
[[Cousin]]
[else]
<a class="checked" href="#">Cousin</a>
[cont]
[if bystander == 0]
[[Bystander]]
[else]
<a class="checked" href="#">Bystander</a>
[cont]
[if joe == 0]
[[Joe Chen]]
[else]
<a class="checked" href="#">Joe Chen</a>
[cont]
[if cousin > 0 && bystander > 0 && joe > 0]
[[Finish Chapter!->3 Outro]]
[cont]
</nav>maryam (passage.visits === 1): 0
driver (passage.visits === 1): 0
walker (passage.visits === 1): 0
config.header.left: "Level 4: Internalized Racism"
config.header.center: ""
config.header.right: "Intro"
--
<h1 class="chaptitle">Internalized Racism</h1>
<div class="video">
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-ZswPJcDl6A?si=cwd_3fOOM0YmYzGs" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>
This scenario examines internalized racism through the experiences of Maryam Tahir, who begins to question her right to practice her religion and identity after facing harassment. Consider also the perspectives of a driver and a pedestrian witnessing the incident, each dealing with their own internalized beliefs.
{embed passage: 'Intro Disclaimer'}
<b>Choose a character to continue:</b>
<nav class="characters">
[if maryam == 0]
[[Maryam Tahir->Maryam]]
[else]
<a class="checked" href="#">Maryam Tahir</a>
[cont]
[if driver == 0]
[[Driver]]
[else]
<a class="checked" href="#">Driver</a>
[cont]
[if walker == 0]
[[Walker]]
[else]
<a class="checked" href="#">Walker</a>
[cont]
[if maryam > 0 && driver > 0 && walker > 0]
[[Finish Chapter!->4 Outro]]
[cont]
</nav><h2>General Considerations for Confronting Racism</h2>
<ul class="check-list">
<li><b>Safety:</b> in any highly emotionally charged scenario, especially where hate is involved, it is important to consider safety first. What words or actions will de-escalate rather than escalate the incident? Is there the potential for someone to turn violent? If so, consider options that will best ensure your immediate safety and the safety of others.</li>
<li><b>Short-term impact:</b> some of the ways in which we respond to racism will have an impact in the short-term only. When safe to do so, it is right and important to address and put an end to racism as it is occurring, and to check in with the targeted person to make sure that they feel supported and safe following the incident.
<li><b>Long-term impact:</b> If possible, do not allow your intervention to be a one-off. Perhaps you maintain a connection with the targeted person or other allies who were involved. Perhaps you continue to work on changing the beliefs and behaviour of the perpetrator(s) of racism. At any rate, committing to unlearning your own entrenched or unconscious racist beliefs and educating yourself and others about racism in all of its forms and levels will be an important part of your ongoing allyship. Such a commitment will empower you to continue to intervene in racist incidents in the future, and helps to counter the effects of all levels of racism, working to change our society for the better.</li>
</ul>
<nav>
[[Back to Menu->Menu]]
</nav><h1>Thank You!</h1>
The Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan thanks <b>you</b> for participating in this exercise. Your interest in working against interpersonal, internalized, systemic, and structural racism is valued. We hope that you will continue on this important journey of learning and unlearning.
<hr>
Acknowledgment to the Communities, Organizations, and Individuals
The Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan has worked with our members, partners, and networks in each of the communities, organizations, and individuals whose lives are impacted by the racism depicted in these videos. We organized consultation and incorporated the feedback.
We want to express our deepest gratitude to the communities, organizations, and individuals whose lives have been affected by racism. Your willingness to share your experiences, insights, and perspectives has been invaluable in shaping this learning process. Your courage, strength, and commitment to creating positive change are at the heart of our collective efforts. Your feedback and guidance have helped ensure that our work is meaningful, thoughtful, and impactful. We are truly honored to collaborate and stand with you in the ongoing journey toward a more equitable and anti-racist society. Thank you for working with us to make this learning possible and being a powerful part of the solution.
<hr>
<h4>Acknowledgment to Khodi Dil</h4>
We sincerely thank Khodi Dill for his exceptional work on the "<em>Choose Your Own Adventure</em>" project. Your creativity, dedication, and vision have been essential in bringing this project to life. Through your hard work and commitment, you have helped create a genuinely engaging and impactful experience. Thank you, Khodi, for your invaluable contributions and for being an integral part of this journey. Your collaboration has made a lasting impact, and we are grateful for your efforts in making this project successful.
<nav>
[[Back to Menu->Menu]]
</nav>config.header.right: "Sekwan's Story"
--
<div class="dialog d-sekwan">
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-sekwan.png" />
<div class="dialog-content">
<h1>Sekwan</h1>
Sekwan is deeply moved by her mushum's stories of survival and cultural reclamation, but she's also frustrated by the ongoing structural barriers her community faces.
<a class="button" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=db40XXAIv1k" target="_blank">Re-watch the video</a>
</div>
</div>
<hr>
[after 2000ms]
<b>What does Sekwan decide to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Accept the structures in place to uphold colonialism->Sekwan A]]
[[Reject and work to change the structures->Sekwan B]]
</nav>
<em>Tip: Think about other options beyond those provided and their consequences.</em>config.header.right: "Ethan's Story"
--
<div class="dialog d-ethan">
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-ethan.png" />
<div class="dialog-content">
<h1>Ethan</h1>
Ethan lives on family land marked by fences and "no trespassing" signs. He struggles with family expectations versus his growing understanding of treaties and Indigenous rights.
<a class="button" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=db40XXAIv1k" target="_blank">Re-watch the video</a>
</div>
</div>
<hr>
[after 2000ms]
<b>What does Ethan decide to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Adopt your family’s beliefs without questioning them->Ethan A]]
[[Continue to learn about treaties and Indigenous peoples and history->Ethan B]]
</nav>
<em>Tip: Think about other options beyond those provided and their consequences.</em>config.header.right: "Grandmother's Story"
--
<div class="dialog d-grandmother">
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-grandmother.png" />
<div class="dialog-content">
<h1>Grandmother</h1>
Grandmother takes pride in her family's long-standing ownership of the land but begins to question the ethics of excluding others, especially Indigenous neighbours with historical connections to the area.
<a class="button" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=db40XXAIv1k" target="_blank">Re-watch the video</a>
</div>
</div>
<hr>
[after 2000ms]
<b>What does Grandmother decide to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Continue to blockade your property->Grandmother A]]
[[Learn more about the Indigenous peoples and history in the area->Grandmother B]]
</nav>
<em>Tip: Think about other options beyond those provided and their consequences.</em>sekwan: 1
--
<h2>Accept the structures in place to uphold colonialism...</h2>
[after 1000ms]
<b>Actions and Outcomes:</b>
Hearing your mushum’s stories of suffering in residential schools and under the Indian Act may not only make you feel angry and saddened, but it may also make you feel a sense of pride knowing how much your mushum has overcome. This may make you see both the postive and negative impacts it has had on your life, as well as his.
[after 1500ms]
Knowing that many of the same structures that orchestrated his suffering are still in place can make you feel hopeless and like nothing can be done.
[after 2000ms]
You may feel like acceptance of colonialism is the only answer. However, accepting the structures of colonialism means accepting the continuing denial of your own rights and freedoms, as well as those of your family members.
[after 3000ms]
<b>What would you like to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Make a different choice->Sekwan]]
[[Keep this decision->1 Intro]]
</nav>sekwan: 2
--
<h2>Reject and work to change the structures...</h2>
[after 1000ms]
<b>Actions and Outcomes:</b>
[after 1300ms]
Thinking about your mushum’s difficult experiences may motivate you to make change for yourself and for future generations.
[after 1600ms]
Your right to pray and practice your traditional ceremonies on your traditional territories is worth fighting for.
[after 1900ms]
Educate yourself about inherent rights, treaty rights, and constitutional rights and freedoms. Advocate for Indigenous rights to be upheld and respected, and for land to be shared.
[after 2200ms]
Participate in activism that works to raise awareness about the ongoing effects of colonialism on the land and in people’s lives. Work to counter structural racism, as your ancestors have always done. Strive to learn more about your language and culture.
[after 3000ms]
<b>What would you like to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Make a different choice->Sekwan]]
[[Keep this decision->1 Intro]]
</nav>ethan: 1
--
<h2>Adopt your family’s beliefs without questioning them...</h2>
[after 1000ms]
<b>Actions and Outcomes:</b>
"Family is family." You may have been told that you should never go against family/adults in your family.
[after 1500ms]
Questioning the grown-ups in your family may be seen as a major faux pas in your community, so perhaps you feel it’s best just to do as they say and follow the rules that they have set out no matter what.
[after 2500ms]
<b>What would you like to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Make a different choice->Ethan]]
[[Keep this decision->1 Intro]]
</nav>ethan: 2
--
<h2>Continue to learn about treaties and Indigenous peoples and history...</h2>
[after 1000ms]
<b>Actions and Outcomes:</b>
You are already beginning to question the amount of work it takes to keep people off of the land on which your family resides. You feel your energy would be better spent elsewhere.
[after 1500ms]
You’ve been learning a little bit about treaties at school and have questions about what it means to share the land. You know what to do. Continue to ask questions at school and learn more.
[after 2000ms]
Make connections and friendships with Indigenous kids in your school and people in your community. Begin to discover new perspectives.
[after 3000ms]
<b>What would you like to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Make a different choice->Ethan]]
[[Keep this decision->1 Intro]]
</nav>chap1: 1
--
<h2>Level 1 Complete!</h2>
<b>How have your choices impacted the world?</b>
[if sekwan == 1]
[after 1000ms]
<div class="outcome bad">
<em><b>Sekwan</b> chose to accept the structures in place to uphold colonialism.</em>
The ongoing effect of these structures makes it hard for Indigenous people to reclaim language and cultural practices, as her mushum has proudly done.
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-sekwan.png" />
</div>
[cont]
[if sekwan == 2]
[after 1000ms]
<div class="outcome good">
<em><b>Sekwan</b> chose to reject and work to change the structures in place to uphold colonialism.</em>
This will make her mushum proud and optimistic about the future for his descendants.
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-sekwan.png" />
</div>
[cont]
[if ethan == 1]
[after 2000ms]
<div class="outcome bad">
<em><b>Ethan</b> chose to adopt his family’s beliefs without questioning them.</em>
Seeing injustice and doing nothing about only allows injustice to continue.
Not having a voice within your own family or community never feels good. If you have ideas and knowledge that your older family members may not have, or even questions that they may benefit from thinking about, it is likely best to find a way to voice your opinion. As a valued member of any family, you should be allowed to have a voice.
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-ethan.png" />
</div>
[cont]
[if ethan == 2]
[after 2000ms]
<div class="outcome good">
<em><b>Ethan</b> chose to continue to learn about treaties and Indigenous peoples and history.</em>
If sharing the land feels right to you, perhaps you can work to change your family’s beliefs.
If doing that isn’t going to work, perhaps you can make a commitment to share the land that you yourself may one day own. To learn more about the treaties and sharing the land, visit the <a href="https://treatylandsharingnetwork.ca/" target="_blank">Treaty Land Sharing Network</a>.
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-ethan.png" />
</div>
[cont]
[if grandmother == 1]
[after 3000ms]
<div class="outcome bad">
<em><b>Grandmother</b> chose to continue to blockade her property.</em>
You may feel satisfied by securing your property, but families with a much longer standing connection to the land than your own may be unable to continue their cultural and spiritual practices and traditions. Your own curiosity about this could lead to feelings of guilt and/or sadness.
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-grandmother.png" />
</div>
[cont]
[if grandmother == 2]
[after 3000ms]
<div class="outcome good">
<em><b>Grandmother</b> chose to learn more about the Indigenous peoples and history in the area.</em>
Getting to know your neighbours will grow your circle of friends and is likely to enhance your experience of living in the area.
Perhaps Indigenous families that have been connected to the land for thousands of years can continue to practice traditions and ceremonies there, with no disruption to your property or activities. A win for everyone.
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-grandmother.png" />
</div>
[cont]
<nav>
[[Continue to Level 2!->2 Intro]]
[[Back to Menu->Menu]]
</nav>grandmother: 1
--
<h2>Continue to blockade your property...</h2>
[after 1000ms]
<b>Actions and Outcomes:</b>
You are proud of your family’s longstanding connection to this land and want to continue with the status quo by keeping “trespassers” out.
[after 1500ms]
You continue to rely on your grandson to keep up the fences and signs in order to do so.
[after 2500ms]
<b>What would you like to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Make a different choice->Grandmother]]
[[Keep this decision->1 Intro]]
</nav>grandmother: 2
--
<h2>Learn more about the Indigenous peoples and history in the area...</h2>
[after 1000ms]
<b>Actions and Outcomes:</b>
Ask Ethan what he’s learning about in school regarding Indigenous and settler history and relations. You may be able to follow Ethan’s lead and access some of the education he has received to help you build a foundation of understanding. Visit the <a href="https://treatylandsharingnetwork.ca/" target="_blank">Treaty Land Sharing Network</a> to learn more about how to share the land with others. We are all treaty people.
[after 1500ms]
<b>Start the conversations!</b> You may feel inspired to reach out to community members who would be interested in accessing your property.
[after 2500ms]
<b>What would you like to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Make a different choice->Grandmother]]
[[Keep this decision->1 Intro]]
</nav>config.header.right: "Abegunde's Story"
--
<div class="dialog d-abe">
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-abegunde.png" />
<div class="dialog-content">
<h1>Abegunde Abiodun</h1>
Abegunde is experiencing microaggressions at school, feeling powerless in the face of institutional policies that do not recognize the racial context of his experiences.
<a class="button" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ynaEiY_S--w" target="_blank">Re-watch the video</a>
</div>
</div>
<hr>
[after 2000ms]
<b>What does Abegunde decide to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Accept the punishment->Abegunde A]]
[[Continue self-advocating and begin networking->Abegunde B]]
</nav>
<em>Tip: Think about other options beyond those provided and their consequences.</em>config.header.right: "Principal's Story"
--
<div class="dialog d-principal">
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-principal.png" />
<div class="dialog-content">
<h1>School Principal</h1>
The principal must decide how to handle discipline after an incident involving Abegunde, within a system that often reinforces racial stereotypes through zero-tolerance policies.
<a class="button" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ynaEiY_S--w" target="_blank">Re-watch the video</a>
</div>
</div>
<hr>
[after 2000ms]
<b>What does the School Principal decide to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Stick to the zero-tolerance policy->Principal A]]
[[Consider the impact of racism in the situation->Principal B]]
</nav>
<em>Tip: Think about other options beyond those provided and their consequences.</em>chap2: 1
--
<h2>Level 2 Complete!</h2>
<b>How have your choices impacted the world?</b>
[if abe == 1]
[after 1000ms]
<div class="outcome bad">
<em><b>Abegunde Abiodum</b> chose to accept the punishment.</em>
No doubt, sitting in detention will make you feel extremely frustrated, perhaps even angry at the indignation experienced. You know in your heart that you don’t deserve to be punished for standing up for yourself.
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-abegunde.png" />
</div>
[cont]
[if abe == 2]
[after 1000ms]
<div class="outcome good">
<em><b>Abegunde Abiodum</b> chose to reject and work to change the structures in place to uphold colonialism.</em>
If your advocacy and that of your allies is successful, perhaps the school principal can direct educational opportunities to the students for whom they are truly needed. When we are afforded the opportunity of education, we are able to learn about how the effect our microaggressions and racist ideas impact others and ultimately, ourselves.
If necessary, incidents like this one can also be elevated to the level of the school district/division administration, and/or the local news media in order to help apply the pressure that is sometimes needed to make change happen.
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-abegunde.png" />
</div>
[cont]
[if principal == 1]
[after 2000ms]
<div class="outcome bad">
<em>The <b>School Principal</b> chose to stick to the zero-tolerance policy.</em>
Unquestioningly punishing students who have already been harmed by racism is wrong, is a double-punishment, and is a form of systemic racism that happens often. By ignoring the relevance of perceived race in this matter, you will be perpetuating systemic racism.
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-principal.png" />
</div>
[cont]
[if principal == 2]
[after 2000ms]
<div class="outcome good">
<em>The <b>School Principal</b> chose to consider the impact of racism in the situation.</em>
A greater awareness of how racism works might help you to apply repercussions to the students involved in harassing Abegunde, rather than to Abegunde, who was the targeted person here.
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-principal.png" />
</div>
[cont]
[after 3000ms]
<b>A note on student peers and educators:</b>
Supporting students affected by racism within school can feel like an uphill battle, but whether you are a student yourself, or a teacher, networking with others can create the groundswell needed to create change. Speak to your friends or colleagues and generate some solidarity. Then, approach the school principal with your concerns. Ask if an anti-racism policy is already in place in your school. If not, advocate that one be created. You can also write to or phone the administrative personnel in your school district or school division office. Perhaps most importantly, check in with the targeted student and their family to see if there are ways that you personally can help your schoolmate or student feel more supported and safer while at school.
<nav>
[[Continue to Level 3!->3 Intro]]
[[Back to Menu->Menu]]
</nav>abe: 1
--
<h2>Accept the punishment...</h2>
[after 1000ms]
<b>Actions and Outcomes:</b>
You’ve just experienced two microaggressions in the forms of making fun of your name and unwanted hair touching. Microaggressions are interpersonal interactions that are rooted in systemic racism and power imbalances. While they may seem trivial to some, they often leave the targeted person feeling slighted, unwelcome, and less than. Sitting across the desk from your school principal, it’s likely that you will experience yet another discomforting power imbalance.
[after 2000ms]
If your verbal protests don’t amount to anything, you may feel like there is very little you can do in the moment to change your principal’s mind and help her to see the unfairness in the situation.
[after 3000ms]
<b>What would you like to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Make a different choice->Abegunde]]
[[Keep this decision->2 Intro]]
</nav>abe: 2
--
<h2>Continue self-advocating and begin networking...</h2>
[after 1000ms]
<b>Actions and Outcomes:</b>
For as long as it safe for you to do so, you may choose to continue to advocate for yourself by attempting to share your feelings and perspectives with the school principal.
[after 1500ms]
Perhaps she will come to understand that applying a blanket zero-tolerance policy may not be the best option in this situation.
[after 2000ms]
If the principal will not listen to you, consider speaking to a parent, guardian, or other trusted adult about what happened, such as a teacher whom you trust in the school. These allies may be able to help you access the social power you need to truly be heard in the situation. Perhaps they can help the principal understand uninvited hair-touching as a form of race-based harassment and assault.
[after 3000ms]
<b>What would you like to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Make a different choice->Abegunde]]
[[Keep this decision->2 Intro]]
</nav>principal: 1
--
<h2>Stick to the zero-tolerance policy...</h2>
[after 1000ms]
<b>Actions and Outcomes:</b>
Perhaps you believe that zero-tolerance means zero-tolerance and are therefore moved to punish Abegunde as you would any other student.
[after 1500ms]
Bear in mind: research shows that Black and Indigenous students in Canada experience a disproportionately harsher application of school discipline than other students. Clearly, there is something wrong with the way behaviour policies are being applied in our schools.
[after 2000ms]
Zero-tolerance policies often ignore the relevance of racial identity and the impact of racism as violence in school-based behaviour incidents.
[after 3000ms]
<b>What would you like to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Make a different choice->Principal]]
[[Keep this decision->2 Intro]]
</nav>principal: 2
--
<h2>Consider the impact of racism in the situation...</h2>
[after 1000ms]
<b>Actions and Outcomes:</b>
Educating yourself about the relevance of race and racism in the day-to-day interactions of students might help you to see how applying the zero-tolerance policy to Abegunde could be unfair in this situation.
[after 1500ms]
Unwanted touching of one’s hair or body is a form of assault, and uninvited hair-touching is a widely reported form of racial harassment experienced by Black people especially.
[after 2000ms]
Educating yourself, your school staff, and your students about the harmfulness of racial harassment is important to ensuring the safety of racialized students like Abegunde. Consider changing your zero-tolerance policy. Consider instituting an anti-racism policy in your school if your school district/division does not already have one. For an example, see that of <a href="https://www.spsd.sk.ca/division/adminproceduresmanual/Documents/AP%20372%20Anti%20Racism%20and%20Response%20to%20Racism.pdf" target="_blank">Saskatoon Public Schools</a>. Resist systemic racism.
[after 3000ms]
<b>What would you like to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Make a different choice->Principal]]
[[Keep this decision->2 Intro]]
</nav>config.header.right: "Cousin's Story"
--
<div class="dialog d-cousin">
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-cousin.png" />
<div class="dialog-content">
<h1>Mutual Cousin</h1>
You find yourself caught between family loyalty and your discomfort with the racist remarks being made by another family member towards Joe Chen, your cousin by marriage. The tension makes you uneasy, and you must decide how to respond.
<a class="button" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HTrTzJW0L-A" target="_blank">Re-watch the video</a>
</div>
</div>
<hr>
[after 2000ms]
<b>What does the Cousin decide to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Hide your feelings/stay silent->Cousin A]]
[[Interrupt!->Cousin B]]
[[Have a private conversation with your cousin->Cousin C]]
</nav>
<em>Tip: Think about other options beyond those provided and their consequences.</em>config.header.right: "Bystander's Story"
--
<div class="dialog d-bystander">
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-bystander.png" />
<div class="dialog-content">
<h1>The Bystander</h1>
You are an unrelated observer witnessing a racist incident involving Joe Chen. The situation makes you uncomfortable, but you are unsure about the best way to intervene without escalating the situation.
<a class="button" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HTrTzJW0L-A" target="_blank">Re-watch the video</a>
</div>
</div>
<hr>
[after 2000ms]
<b>What does the Bystander decide to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Speak up!->Bystander A]]
[[Mind your business->Bystander B]]
[[Speak privately or write a note to Joe->Bystander C]]
</nav>
<em>Tip: Think about other options beyond those provided and their consequences.</em>config.header.right: "Joe Chen's Story"
--
<div class="dialog d-joe">
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-joe.png" />
<div class="dialog-content">
<h1>Joe Chen</h1>
Joe faces racism from a customer while at work, leaving him feeling vulnerable and uncertain about how to proceed. Balancing his emotional wellbeing with workplace expectations, Joe must choose his response.
<a class="button" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HTrTzJW0L-A" target="_blank">Re-watch the video</a>
</div>
</div>
<hr>
[after 2000ms]
<b>What does Joe decide to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Say nothing->Joe A]]
[[Speak up even though the perpetrator is a customer->Joe B]]
</nav>
<em>Tip: Think about other options beyond those provided and their consequences.</em>chap3: 1
--
<h2>Level 3 Complete!</h2>
<b>How have your choices impacted the world?</b>
[if cousin == 1]
[after 1000ms]
<div class="outcome bad">
<em>The mutual <b>Cousin</b> chose to hide their feelings and stay silent.</em>
Joe experiences hurtful racist behaviour.
The other cousin is empowered to continue his racist thoughts and behaviours.
The Bystander remains very uncomfortable with the racism.
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-cousin.png" />
</div>
[cont]
[if cousin == 2]
[after 1000ms]
<div class="outcome good">
<em>The mutual <b>Cousin</b> chose to interrupt the racist remarks.</em>
Their family member may think twice about making racist remarks in the future.
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-cousin.png" />
</div>
[cont]
[if cousin == 3]
[after 1000ms]
<div class="outcome good">
<em>The mutual <b>Cousin</b> chose to have a private conversation with the relative who made the racist remarks.</em>
We help others when we give them ideas to reflect on. Perhaps your cousin had not yet realized the true harmfulness of their racist words, actions, and ideas.
Perhaps your cousin will change their behaviour. While this approach does not help Joe in the moment, it may help him (and others) in the future.
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-cousin.png" />
</div>
[cont]
[if bystander == 1]
[after 2000ms]
<div class="outcome bad">
<em>The <b>Bystander</b> chose to mind their own business.</em>
A failure to do anything may leave Joe feeling hurt, isolated, and unsafe in both his workplace and community.
You, too, may be left feeling guilty and disempowered if you do nothing at all to help.
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-bystander.png" />
</div>
[cont]
[if bystander == 2]
[after 2000ms]
<div class="outcome good">
<em>The <b>Bystander</b> chose to speak up against the racist remarks.</em>
A brave decision!
Be sure to evaluate the general safety of speaking out in the heat of the moment as this can lead to escalation. Please read the section titled “[[Other general considerations for confronting racism->Considerations]]” to learn more.
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-bystander.png" />
</div>
[cont]
[if bystander == 3]
[after 2000ms]
<div class="outcome good">
<em>The <b>Bystander</b> chose to speak privately or write a note to Joe.</em>
Leading with compassion goes a long way. It is more than likely that both you and Joe will feel a sense of closure after sharing a moment of connection. This may lead to a more positive outlook as well.
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-bystander.png" />
</div>
[cont]
[if joe == 1]
[after 3000ms]
<div class="outcome bad">
<em><b>Joe Chen</b> chose to say nothing.</em>
It is important to assess your options as they pertain to your wellbeing and safety, but as the target of racism, not responding to it all may leave you feeling hurt, worthless, depressed, and isolated. Many of these experiences, stacked up over time can even lead to serious mental health problems related to internalized racism.
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-joe.png" />
</div>
[cont]
[if joe == 2]
[after 3000ms]
<div class="outcome good">
<em><b>Joe Chen</b> chose to speak up even though the perpetrator was a customer.</em>
When it is safe to do so, standing up to racist behaviour can be a good way to assert your own humanity. It can also let others know that their words or behaviour are not acceptable and can help to protect your dignity and sense of self-worth in the process.
Other staff or patrons may have experienced the same behaviour and were unsure of how to address it. By showing others how to safely and respectfully handle instances of racism, we empower them to make the decision to speak up.
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-joe.png" />
</div>
[cont]
<nav>
[[Continue to Level 4!->4 Intro]]
[[Back to Menu->Menu]]
</nav>cousin: 1
--
<h2>Hide your feelings/stay silent...</h2>
[after 1000ms]
<b>Actions and Outcomes:</b>
This can often seem like the easiest response to interpersonal racism, especially in the heat of the moment. Suppressing our true feelings in order to participate in a racist act will leave us experiencing guilt, loss of integrity, and resentment. For people who are white-passing, this option can foster feelings that amplify internalized racism and is often an option only afforded to those who come from a place of white privilege who have not had to experience being personally racialized.
[after 2000ms]
The desire to not ruffle feathers within our familial relationships may even move us to participate in the racism we witness so as not to create conflict that will follow us home. However, not addressing the harmful behaviour we see from our family members, friends, and coworkers, can create more tension than if we were to address it through open communication. This can also lead to resentment within relationships.
[after 3000ms]
<b>What would you like to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Make a different choice->Cousin]]
[[Keep this decision->3 Intro]]
</nav>cousin: 2
--
<h2>Interrupt!</h2>
[after 1000ms]
<b>Actions and Outcomes:</b>
While addressing the racist behaviour we see from family members in the moment that it happens can lead to conflict within our relationships, if the relationships are strong to begin with, they should be able to handle a healthy amount of conflict.
[after 1500ms]
One major positive is that the conflict we may or may not create within our familial relationship will help to divert or ease the conflict experienced by Joe in the moments following the racist act.
[after 2000ms]
Here, your interruption may even help Joe feel affirmed with the knowledge that there are in fact allies in his midst.
[after 3000ms]
<b>What would you like to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Make a different choice->Cousin]]
[[Keep this decision->3 Intro]]
</nav>cousin: 3
--
<h2>Have a private conversation with your cousin...</h2>
[after 1000ms]
<b>Actions and Outcomes:</b>
It is entirely conceivable that we may miss our opportunity to address the racism we witness from family in the heat of the moment. If this has happened to you, and you are left feeling uneasy about how things went, consider having a private conversation with your family member.
[after 1500ms]
It should never be a goal to publicly humiliate; rather, our goal should be to bring in, create understanding, and educate. If your family member was highly emotionally charged during the racist act they committed, then waiting until they have calmed may allow them to be more receptive to your feedback and concerns about the incident.
[after 2000ms]
Sharing your own feelings especially, as well as any helpful perspectives you can offer, may lead your family member to critically reflect on their behaviour.
[after 3000ms]
<b>What would you like to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Make a different choice->Cousin]]
[[Keep this decision->3 Intro]]
</nav>bystander: 2
--
<h2>Speak up!</h2>
[after 1000ms]
<b>Actions and Outcomes:</b>
Having no pre-existing relationship with the person making racist remarks means that you likely have little to lose by speaking up and interrupting their harmful behaviour. Respond with a heartfelt comment or one such as those compiled by the <a href="https://education.up.edu/_files/2018_interruptions.pdf" target="_blank">Oregon Center for Educational Equity</a>.
[after 1500ms]
Doing so may mean a lot to Joe and take some of the pressure off of him to bear the full weight of responding to the racism.
[after 2000ms]
Whatever you do, be sure to take your cues from Joe. Many targeted people are quite comfortable addressing the racism they experience, and it may not be helpful to speak over or for the targeted person if they wish to handle the issue themselves.
[after 3000ms]
<b>What would you like to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Make a different choice->Bystander]]
[[Keep this decision->3 Intro]]
</nav>bystander: 1
--
<h2>Mind your business...</h2>
[after 1000ms]
<b>Actions and Outcomes:</b>
Depending on your own personality, social positioning, and the general conditions surrounding the incident, you may feel compelled to say and do nothing in the wake of witnessing racism.
[after 2000ms]
While protecting your and others’ safety is important, it is worth considering what other options are available to you so that you can make it known that you don’t support racism in any form.
[after 3000ms]
<b>What would you like to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Make a different choice->Bystander]]
[[Keep this decision->3 Intro]]
</nav>bystander: 3
--
<h2>Speak privately or write a note to Joe...</h2>
[after 1000ms]
<b>Actions and Outcomes:</b>
If it is not safe to speak up in the heat of the moment, or if Joe willingly defends himself against the racist remarks, it can’t hurt to share your own feelings privately with him.
[after 2000ms]
A few comforting or affirming remarks spoken aloud or in writing won’t change the racist behaviour that you witnessed, but it may help Joe feel better about his workplace and feel safer within his community.
[after 3000ms]
<b>What would you like to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Make a different choice->Bystander]]
[[Keep this decision->3 Intro]]
</nav>joe: 1
--
<h2>Say nothing...</h2>
[after 1000ms]
<b>Actions and Outcomes:</b>
The fact that the racist behaviour you’re experiencing is coming from a customer does not excuse it, but as an employee of an establishment, you may feel that you cannot act.
[after 1500ms]
Perhaps you fear repercussions from your employer or feel that it is not your place to contradict a customer.
[after 2000ms]
However, racism is always wrong, no matter whom it’s coming from or under what circumstances you may be experiencing it.
[after 3000ms]
<b>What would you like to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Make a different choice->Joe Chen]]
[[Keep this decision->3 Intro]]
</nav>joe: 2
--
<h2>Speak up even though the perpetrator is a customer...</h2>
[after 1000ms]
<b>Actions and Outcomes:</b>
If it is safe to do so, let the customer know that racism will not be tolerated in the establishment.
[after 1300ms]
Escalate the incident to a manager: your employer has a duty to guarantee your safety as an employee and, in compliance with Human Rights legislation, Workers Comepnsation Board protocol, and union policies, to ensure you are not discriminated against. Reaching out to a superior either in the heat of the moment, or following it, can be a good way to both establish your physical safety and to prevent recurrences of racism at work in the future.
[after 1600ms]
Perhaps the manager will help to remove the person who targeted you. Perhaps that person will not be welcome back in the future. Use whatever resources and allies you have to secure your safety and wellbeing.
[after 2000ms]
A downside to speaking up is that you may become a target for the perpetrators misdirected anger and hatred. Your employer may even brush the instance off or become resistant to understanding the harms caused. In both cases, stand firm in your understanding that you took action to make a difference and keep yourself safe. If you need to remove yourself from the situation because you are questioning your safety, do so. Sometimes, security or police enforcement is required. Use your discretion to determine if this is a necessary step to take.
[after 3000ms]
However, racism is always wrong, no matter whom it’s coming from or under what circumstances you may be experiencing it.
[after 3000ms]
<b>What would you like to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Make a different choice->Joe Chen]]
[[Keep this decision->3 Intro]]
</nav>config.header.right: "Maryam's Story"
--
<div class="dialog d-maryam">
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-maryam.png" />
<div class="dialog-content">
<h1>Maryam Tahir</h1>
After experiencing targeted harassment, Maryam feels shaken and begins to question her choice to wear the hijab and visibly practice her religion. She must choose how to respond to these feelings.
<a class="button" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ZswPJcDl6A" target="_blank">Re-watch the video</a>
</div>
</div>
<hr>
[after 2000ms]
<b>What does Maryam decide to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Stop wearing your hijab and assimilate->Maryam A]]
[[Reject the beliefs underlying the racism->Maryam B]]
</nav>
<em>Tip: Think about other options beyond those provided and their consequences.</em>config.header.right: "Driver's Story"
--
<div class="dialog d-driver">
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-driver.png" />
<div class="dialog-content">
<h1>The Driver</h1>
Witnessing Maryam's harassment, the driver recalls personal experiences of Islamophobia and faces a moment of decision on whether to support or discourage Maryam's visible religious practice.
<a class="button" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ZswPJcDl6A" target="_blank">Re-watch the video</a>
</div>
</div>
<hr>
[after 2000ms]
<b>What does Maryam decide to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Discourage Maryam from wearing the hijab->Driver A]]
[[Encourage pride in wearing the hijab, boost Maryam’s confidence->Driver B]]
</nav>
<em>Tip: Think about other options beyond those provided and their consequences.</em>config.header.right: "Walker's Story"
--
<div class="dialog d-walker">
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-walker.png" />
<div class="dialog-content">
<h1>The Walker</h1>
Observing Maryam's experience prompts the pedestrian to reflect on similar incidents affecting their own partner. They must decide how to support and take action against Islamophobia.
<a class="button" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ZswPJcDl6A" target="_blank">Re-watch the video</a>
</div>
</div>
<hr>
[after 2000ms]
<b>What does the Walker decide to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Speak to your partner Fatima about her own experience->Walker A]]
[[Report hate incidents->Walker B]]
</nav>
<em>Tip: Think about other options beyond those provided and their consequences.</em>chap4: 1
--
<h2>Level 4 Complete!</h2>
<b>How have your choices impacted the world?</b>
[if maryam == 1]
[after 1000ms]
<div class="outcome bad">
<em><b>Maryam</b> chose to stop wearing her hijab and assimilate.</em>
No one should feel like they have to hide their true identities in order to fit in. Doing so may even cause you to feel a loss of self-worth and a loss of connection to your culture, community, and your roots.
Hiding your identity may create a sense safety in the moment but can also make it feel like racism wins.
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-maryam.png" />
</div>
[cont]
[if maryam == 2]
[after 1000ms]
<div class="outcome good">
<em><b>Maryam</b> chose to reject the beliefs underlying the racism.</em>
When you stand strong in your own beliefs, you can be proud of who you are. Every human being deserves the right to happiness as well as the freedom to express their identities fully. For resources on supporting Muslim women and combatting Islamophobia, visit the <a href="https://www.ccmw.com/publications" target="_blank">publications page</a> of the Canadian Council of Muslim Women website or visit the <a href="https://www.nccm.ca/" target="_blank">National Council for Canadian Muslims</a>.
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-maryam.png" />
</div>
[cont]
[if driver == 1]
[after 2000ms]
<div class="outcome bad">
<em>The <b>Driver</b> chose to discourage Maryam from wearing the hijab.</em>
Bear in mind that perhaps there is a chance that you are also struggling with a loss of pride in your own religious identity due to your own experiences of Islamophobia. Does telling Maryam to assimilate only perpetuate this cycle?
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-driver.png" />
</div>
[cont]
[if driver == 2]
[after 2000ms]
<div class="outcome good">
<em>The <b>Driver</b> chose to encourage pride in wearing the hijab, boost Maryam’s confidence.</em>
Such a show of solidarity can help to counter the negative feelings they may have after experiencing racist incidents, thus boosting their ability to resist internalizing racism.
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-driver.png" />
</div>
[cont]
[if walker == 1]
[after 3000ms]
<div class="outcome good">
<em>The <b>Walker</b> chose to speak to their partner Fatima about her own experience.</em>
This may well be a welcome discussion that can help you better understand Fatima’s experiences, support her, and, maybe, help her to create change in her workplace.
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-walker.png" />
</div>
[cont]
[if walker == 2]
[after 3000ms]
<div class="outcome good">
<em>The <b>Walker</b> chose to report hate incidents.</em>
Helping Maryam, Fatima, or others understand that racism is unacceptable and that they do not deserve to be harassed will help them to resist internalizing racism and will help to reduce the chances of them experiencing hate-fueled incidents in the future. Learn more about <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vDBlV5H1VMI" target="_blank">Islamophobia in Canada here</a>.
<img class="profile" src="https://mcos.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/profile-walker.png" />
</div>
[cont]
<nav>
[[Back to Menu->Menu]]
</nav>maryam: 1
--
<h2>Stop wearing your hijab and assimilate...</h2>
[after 1000ms]
<b>Actions and Outcomes:</b>
In the face of hate and harassment, it is normal to feel like life would be easier if you just decided to hide your religious and cultural identity and do your best to assimilate to the dominant culture.
[after 2000ms]
While this may indeed prevent you from being targeted the same number of times, it does nothing to change the harmful narratives and stereotypes that pervade the dominant culture and that caused you to feel unsafe in the first place.
[after 3000ms]
<b>What would you like to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Make a different choice->Maryam]]
[[Keep this decision->4 Intro]]
</nav>maryam: 2
--
<h2>Reject the beliefs underlying the racism...</h2>
[after 1000ms]
<b>Actions and Outcomes:</b>
Racism can be spurred by harmful stereotypes. Rejecting these can help you maintain your sense of self-worth and pride in your identity and your heritage.
[after 1500ms]
You do belong here. Your existence is valid. Your religion and your culture are beautiful and vibrant. Affirming these truths for yourself may help you to mentally counter the harmful stereotypes that work against your happiness and your feelings of belonging in your home communities.
[after 2000ms]
Share this experience with family, friends, and community members that you trust. There is value in being able to speak your truth and seek support from others. You may learn of ways that others have coped with similar instances.
[after 3000ms]
<b>What would you like to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Make a different choice->Maryam]]
[[Keep this decision->4 Intro]]
</nav>driver: 1
--
<h2>Discourage Maryam from wearing the hijab...</h2>
[after 1000ms]
<b>Actions and Outcomes:</b>
You have shared that you yourself stopped wearing the hijab once you arrived in Canada in order to avoid experiencing Islamophobic hate. Perhaps you feel compelled to share this survival tactic with Maryam.
[after 2000ms]
Doing so would surely come from a place of compassion and may even help Maryam to avoid experiencing this sort of incident in the future.
[after 3000ms]
<b>What would you like to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Make a different choice->Driver]]
[[Keep this decision->4 Intro]]
</nav>driver: 2
--
<h2>Encourage pride in wearing the hijab, boost Maryam’s confidence...</h2>
[after 1000ms]
<b>Actions and Outcomes:</b>
Your own friends experience racist harassment when walking in the streets of your community. You know that they should not have to experience this, just as Maryam should not.
[after 1300ms]
Understanding that Maryam’s and your friends’ choice to wear the hijab is deeply rooted in their beliefs and their identities, you may wish to encourage their actions and help to re-affirm their pride in themselves and their religion.
[after 1600ms]
Express sympathy and ask if Maryam is ok. You, too, have been made to feel less-than because of your religion. Perhaps there is a way to respond to this issue that places the onus for xenophobia on those perpetrating it. Affirm for Maryam that she has a right to wear the hijab and to express her religious identity however she sees fit.
[after 1900ms]
Honk your car horn at the perpetrator! This is a simple action we can take to disrupt someone’s actions.
[after 3000ms]
<b>What would you like to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Make a different choice->Driver]]
[[Keep this decision->4 Intro]]
</nav>walker: 1
--
<h2>Speak to your partner Fatima about her own experience...</h2>
[after 1000ms]
<b>Actions and Outcomes:</b>
Witnessing this incident reminds you that you are far too accustomed to seeing the ways in which Muslim women especially are targeted by hate in your community.
[after 2000ms]
Try opening up a discussion with your own partner about whether or not she is experiencing harassment at work for wearing the hijab.
[after 3000ms]
<b>What would you like to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Make a different choice->Walker]]
[[Keep this decision->4 Intro]]
</nav>walker: 2
--
<h2>Report hate incidents...</h2>
[after 1000ms]
<b>Actions and Outcomes:</b>
The Human Rights Code is designed to protect people from harassment or discrimination on the basis of religion and other identifiers.
[after 2000ms]
If necessary, lodge a complaint with the <a href="https://saskatchewanhumanrights.ca/" target="_blank">Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission</a> or other relevant authority.
[after 3000ms]
<b>What would you like to do?</b>
<nav class="choices">
[[Make a different choice->Walker]]
[[Keep this decision->4 Intro]]
</nav><details>
<summary>Disclaimer!</summary>
<p>This activity is meant as an exercise for reflection only, and <u>not</u> as a definitive guide for responding to racism.</p>
<p>Every scenario and person is different, and you will need to consider each decision carefully, taking in the full scope of the specific circumstances of any racist incident you may witness or be targeted by.</p>
<p>Be sure to see the “<em>other general considerations</em>” and reference section at the end of this activity to help guide and further your understanding for capacity and action.</p>
</details>